Myxoma of the lateral skull base: clinical features and management

To evaluate the clinical features and incidence of true myxomas affecting the lateral skull base.

Illustrative case report and review of the relevant literature. Included are all reports of myxomas according to the histopathologic definition of Stout.

Despite nine case reports, only four patients matched the histopathologic criteria of a true myxoma growing in the lateral skull base. Facial palsy occurred in three adults with additional otalgia in one and progressive hearing loss (HL) in another patient. Our patient initially presented with signs of recurrent otitis media. The mastoid cavity was involved in all patients.

Differential diagnosis of lesions occurring in the lateral skull base should include true myxoma. Correct diagnosis should be based on immunohistopathology to rule out malignant tumors. Radical surgery is the treatment of choice, but surgeons should respect vital structures and esthetic consequences.